- A historic project is underway in Sairme, part of which includes establishing a dedicated farm area where animals listed in the Red Book of endangered species will be bred and later released into their natural habitats.
- Visitors to Sairme Resort will soon be able to see deer not only in forests and special enclosures, but also freely roaming in the wild.
- Over the past six months, an investment of 700,000 GEL has already been made in the Sairme Recreational Farm project.
As part of a large-scale development plan in Sairme, a 13,000-hectare area will be transformed into the Sairme Recreational Farm. The investing company has taken full responsibility for maintaining and managing this vast territory.
Over the next five years, the project will see an investment of no less than 4 million GEL, aimed at preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable ecological development in the region.
On November 5, 2024, the investor won an electronic auction announced by the National Environmental Agency of Georgia, offering the highest bid and obtaining the necessary license. As part of this agreement, the company is now responsible for protecting and preserving the flora and fauna within the territory, conducting continuous environmental monitoring, caring for rare animal species, and supporting their reproduction.
Work across the area is progressing intensively. In the near future, the 13,000-hectare territory will feature well-arranged hiking trails designed for both local and international tourists. Hiking maps will be introduced, and directional signs will be installed throughout the area to ensure safe and engaging exploration for travelers.
What Investments Have Been Made Over the Past Six Months?
It is noteworthy that in 2024, an investment of 700,000 GEL has already been made in the Sairme Recreational Farm project. As part of this initiative, six rangers and one specialist have been employed to oversee and protect the area.
To support their work, the team has been equipped with four off-road vehicles, two buggies, two snowmobiles, and two horses, ensuring effective monitoring and maintenance across the vast and diverse terrain.
As part of the project, 25 camera traps have already been installed throughout the area with the number expected to triple in the near future. In addition, a high-quality drone has been purchased to enhance monitoring efforts.
Within the framework of the Sairme Recreational Farm project, approximately 30,000 trout eggs at the eye stage of development were released into one of the tributaries of the Tsablari River, contributing to the restoration of local aquatic biodiversity.
To support wildlife, feeding stations have been set up in the forest. The area has also been equipped with rest and picnic spaces, furnished with all necessary facilities including fire extinguishers to promote visitor comfort and ensure fire safety in the forested zones.
What Are the Future Plans for Sairme’s Recreational Farm?
As part of the Sairme Recreational Farm project, a wide range of developments are planned across the Vani and Baghdati regions, aiming to promote eco-tourism, as well as educational, recreational, and adventure tourism.
For visitors, tourists, and local residents, modern recreational spaces will be built, including first aid medical stations and cottages that meet contemporary standards.
Safety will be a top priority throughout the area, while still allowing visitors the freedom to move freely within the forest. The project also includes the restoration of damaged forest areas and the regular provision of food for animals, birds, and fish.
To ensure accessibility, new roads leading to the farm and internal routes will be developed and improved. The project also envisions horseback riding and hiking trails, as well as roads suitable for fire and rescue vehicles, with the entire area being equipped with fire safety systems. The expansion of mobile network coverage will improve phone and internet connectivity across the territory.
Educational programs will be regularly organized for local residents, focusing on wildlife conservation and species reproduction. The project has already begun employing local residents from Vani and Baghdati, including the recruitment of rangers responsible for forest protection and safety.
Importantly, local communities will retain their rights to use the forest, continuing any legally permitted activities without restrictions. Beyond the ranger workforce, locals will also be employed at various stages of the project from construction and training to long-term roles within the farm itself.
The large-scale project in Vani and Baghdati is already underway, with all commitments expected to be fully implemented within the next five years.